Eric West

 

Similar to many musicians, Eric West grew up in a musical household. His journey began at the age of 5 when his uncle donated an old drumset to him and his brother. At 12 years old, he began formal training at Humber College's Community Music Program. It was there that he fostered his love for jazz under the mentorship of Kirk MacDonald, Steve Mancuso, Barry Romberg, Jane Fair, and Don Palmer. Eric went on to continue his post secondary studies at Humber College where he received a Bachelors Degree in Music. Since then, he has gone on to be an active member of the Toronto jazz community, as well as branching out to pop and indie rock scenes. He has toured throughout Europe, USA, and Canada, with notable acts such as, The TenorsBanners and Pram Trio. In 2012, he was awarded the Sabian Cymbal Award by Humber College for outstanding achievement and in 2014, was awarded the prestigious Grande Prix de Jazz at the Montreal Jazz Festival as a member of co-led group Pram Trio. Eric continues to be an active member of the Toronto music scene. He's held a residency at Poetry Jazz Cafe since 2012, as well as continuing to play at other establishments around the city. Over the past year Eric began composing for his own project, The Eric West Group, and in December 2019 released his debut EP.